Kantabanji, May 13: Former Kantabanji MLA and senior BJD leader Haji Md. Ayub Khan, popularly known as Ayub Khan, passed away on Wednesday morning at his residence in Kantabanji. He was 78 years old. Reports indicate that Khan succumbed to a prolonged illness at around 8:30 am, leaving the region in mourning.

Ayub Khan was first elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly in 2004 as an Independent candidate from the Kantabanji constituency. He later joined the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and won the Assembly elections again in 2014 as a BJD candidate. BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik expressed his condolences following Khan’s demise.

During his political career, Khan was known for his efforts in the development of Kantabanji and his active involvement in public issues affecting the region. Political leaders, supporters, and locals have expressed grief over his passing, remembering his contributions to the constituency’s growth and welfare.